Kirkland won't require surgery

Kirkland suffered the injury, which will still keep him out for the rest of the season, in a clash with Crystal Palace striker Dele Adebola. Reds assistant manager Phil Thompson believes that the young keeper could return to fitness in time for pre-season training.

Thompson said: "Chris doesn't need an operation and the tear will heal in time. Dr Steadman is the best in the business and he's put Chris on a strict rehabilitation programme with a view to him being fit for pre-season training.

"Had he needed surgery, his recovery could have run into the pre-season and goalkeepers, like everyone else, need to do their groundwork before starting a new campaign."